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A quick guide to the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival

The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (English | 中文) truly has been one of my greatest experiences in Taiwan. Seeing those small red lanterns ascend into the sky and morphing into small dots on the horizon has truly been wonderful. The following post will introduce a few of the most important aspects about the Sky Lantern Festival in Pingxi.

People in Taiwan usually write their wishes on the side of the lanterns and then release them into the sky. While particularly popular with couples, good friends or family often join the festivities as well, wishing for good luck, health, wealth, or academic success.

Where: The Sky Lantern Festival is held in the East of New Taipei City, specifically in the cities of Pingxi and Shifen.

When: Exact timing may vary from year to year, but it’s safe to say that the Sky Lantern Festival’s activities will be held sometime in February of every year.

What: Sky Lanterns in various quantities (for coordinated “mass”-releases be sure to check above website). Great food. Romantic atmosphere. Large crowds, especially on days with special events. Probably some rain. Nonetheless a great experience.

Sky Lanterns and Rain – how’s that possible? Although I was skeptical myself at first, however rain does not make lighting and releasing sky-lanterns impossible. Strong wind, on the other hand, might be a different story.

Why? The whole atmosphere is simply breathtaking. For a short impression of what the mood at the event is like be sure to watch my video or search for “天燈節” on Youtube.

Getting there? On days with major activities (i.e. above mentioned “mass”-releases) there will be shuttle-buses leaving from Taipei Zoo MRT station. For regular days you may wish to take the train (via Ruifang) or Bus #795 leaving from Muzha.